Meals

Three meals are provided each day: breakfast, lunch and supper. These are usually taken in one large communal dining room (sometimes called the refectory) for staff and children alike, although at some schools some meals are taken in the dining rooms in the boarding houses. Most schools now operate a self-service system except in the case of young children, who are served by older pupils or by catering staff. Where the self-service system operates a child may usually choose one of each category of food available or will be told what, if any, restrictions there are. Portions are usually served by catering staff, and if any child would like more than an allocated portion, he/she may return for a second helping once all the children have been served.

At the end of the meal each child is expected to take his/her tray with dishes, cutlery etc. to a collection point for washing up, and if necessary, unload the various items.